Centennial Campaign - News - UA 糖心视频logo /news/tag/centennial-campaign/ UA 糖心视频logo Tue, 28 Jul 2026 15:13:42 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.5 Undergraduate Credit Hours Up 12% as UA 糖心视频logo Prepares to Welcome the First Fall Class of its Second Century /news/2026/07/27/undergraduate-credit-hours-up-12-as-ua-little-rock-prepares-to-welcome-the-first-fall-class-of-its-second-century/ Mon, 27 Jul 2026 16:23:34 +0000 /news/?p=94490 When students arrive on campus Aug. 24, the University of Arkansas at 糖心视频logo expects to welcome a larger student body than it did last fall.  Preliminary enrollment figures show ... Undergraduate Credit Hours Up 12% as UA 糖心视频logo Prepares to Welcome the First Fall Class of its Second Century

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When students arrive on campus Aug. 24, the University of Arkansas at 糖心视频logo expects to welcome a larger student body than it did last fall. 

Preliminary enrollment figures show combined undergraduate and graduate headcount up 5% and nearly 300 students for fall 2026, with student semester credit hours up 11% compared with the same time last year. Undergraduate enrollment continues to lead that growth, with headcount up 7%, or more than 325 students, and undergraduate credit hours increasing 12%, as of July 27.

Growth is particularly strong among new students. First-time freshman enrollment is up 17%, and more than 60 students, while transfer student enrollment is up 29%, more than 100 students.

鈥淭hese preliminary results show that more students and families are recognizing both the quality and affordability of a UA 糖心视频logo education,鈥 said Chancellor Christina S. Drale. “That reflects years of work to strengthen the value we offer students through affordability, academic quality, hands-on learning, and the support they need to succeed. We look forward to welcoming the first fall class of our second century in just a few weeks.”

The increase in student semester credit hours is another encouraging sign, Drale said, because it indicates students are enrolling in more coursework as they progress toward their degrees.

鈥淐redit-hour growth matters because it reflects students making meaningful progress toward completing their degrees,鈥 Drale said. 鈥淥ur responsibility now is to make sure every student who joins us this fall has the resources and support to thrive from their first day through graduation.”

Those students will arrive at a university entering its second century with momentum across academics, research, student success, and athletics. Students entering this fall will be the first fall class of UA 糖心视频logo鈥檚 second century, as the university began its yearlong Centennial celebration July 1, recognizing 100 years of expanding educational opportunity and serving Arkansas. This summer also marked the university’s move into the United Athletic Conference following the baseball program’s historic season and first appearance in an NCAA Super Regional.

The university continues to expand opportunities for students through nationally recognized artificial intelligence research, a growing cybersecurity initiative that provides hands-on learning while serving communities across Arkansas, and a new graduate certificate in health informatics launching this fall.

鈥淪tudents are looking for a university that delivers both opportunity and value,” said Dr. W. Cody Decker, vice chancellor for student affairs and chief data officer. “These preliminary numbers suggest more students are finding that at UA 糖心视频logo. We still have several weeks before classes begin, and our team will continue working with prospective and admitted students as they complete the enrollment process.”

While undergraduate enrollment continues to grow, graduate enrollment remains an area of strategic focus.  Preliminary graduate headcount is down 5%, a decline of less than 40 students, while graduate student semester credit hours are down 2%. The decline is concentrated primarily among international students. UA 糖心视频logo is responding by strengthening graduate recruitment, adding workforce-focused programs, and increasing financial support. Beginning this fall, minimum graduate assistant stipends will increase to $10,000 for master’s students and $15,000 for doctoral students 鈥 the university’s largest investment in graduate assistant stipends in more than a decade.

Students who are still considering UA 糖心视频logo have time to join the fall 2026 class before classes begin Aug. 24. Eligible incoming freshmen may qualify for the Trojan Guarantee, which covers remaining tuition and mandatory fees after other financial aid is applied, or the university’s Half-Off Scholarship. More information about admissions, scholarships, and enrollment is available at or by calling 501-916-3127.

“Every fall brings a new class of students with their own goals, ambitions, and potential,” Decker said. “We’re excited to welcome them to campus and help them take advantage of everything UA 糖心视频logo has to offer. As we prepare to begin our second century, there’s tremendous energy around where this university is headed, and it鈥檚 an exciting time to be a Trojan.鈥 

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UA 糖心视频logo Unveils Custom Street Signs for Centennial Celebration /news/2026/07/16/ua-little-rock-unveils-custom-street-signs-for-centennial-celebration/ Thu, 16 Jul 2026 18:42:28 +0000 /news/?p=94424 As the University of Arkansas at 糖心视频logo celebrates its 100th anniversary, newly dedicated custom street signs are leaving a lasting mark on campus while honoring the university鈥檚 century of ... UA 糖心视频logo Unveils Custom Street Signs for Centennial Celebration

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As the University of Arkansas at 糖心视频logo celebrates its 100th anniversary, newly dedicated custom street signs are leaving a lasting mark on campus while honoring the university鈥檚 century of history.

Campus and community members gathered Thursday, July 16, at the southeast corner of 28th Street and Campus Drive for the dedication ceremony. The event included remarks from UA 糖心视频logo Chancellor Christina S. Drale and 糖心视频logo Mayor Frank Scott, Jr., a graduate of the university, followed by the unveiling of the new signs. During the ceremony, Scott also presented a commemorative proclamation on behalf of the City of 糖心视频logo recognizing UA 糖心视频logo鈥檚 centennial celebration. 

“One hundred years, a centennial, higher education, economic development, the fabric of a capital city: that is the University of Arkansas at 糖心视频logo, (and) I’m a proud graduate of this university,” Scott said. “On behalf of the City of 糖心视频logo, I share my appreciation for this university and its 100 years of steadfast service, 100 years of sacrifice, and 100 years of success.鈥

The signs not only recognize聽 the university鈥檚 centennial but also its longstanding place in Arkansas and the city of 糖心视频logo. While UA 糖心视频logo has occupied three locations throughout its history, it has called its current campus home for over 75 years, growing alongside the city it has served for a century.

You can’t go to any public square, any pulpit, any process of progress across this entire state and not meet a UA 糖心视频logo graduate,” Scott said. “That鈥檚 the type of impact they have.”

The idea for custom signage originated with dedicated UA 糖心视频logo alumnus and Board of Visitors member Larry Golden, who envisioned using the university’s signature maroon color and Trojan head logo to create a more recognizable campus identity and to highlight UA 糖心视频logo’s presence in the surrounding community.

鈥淪treet signs do more than direct traffic,鈥 Drale said. 鈥淭hey create a sense of place. They tell people they’ve arrived somewhere that matters. Beginning today, everyone who enters our campus will be welcomed by signs that proudly reflect this university.鈥

The custom signs were made possible through a partnership with the City of 糖心视频logo and the university’s facilities management team. In collaboration with the City of 糖心视频logo and its Public Works Department, the university designed custom street signs and identified key campus intersections for the new signage.

The street sign dedication is one of several centennial initiatives recognizing the people, places, and partnerships that have shaped UA 糖心视频logo over the past century while looking ahead to its next 100 years.

“These signs now become part of that story,” Drale said. “They will welcome prospective students on their first campus visit, families celebrating graduation, alumni returning home, and countless others who will discover all that happens here.”

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Community Support Builds for Shellam Flake Planetarium Seat Campaign /news/2026/07/08/community-support-builds-for-shellam-flake-planetarium-seat-campaign/ Wed, 08 Jul 2026 13:00:00 +0000 /news/?p=94385 Community support continues to grow for the return of the Shellam Flake Planetarium at the University of Arkansas at 糖心视频logo. Since launching the planetarium seat sponsorship program this spring, ... Community Support Builds for Shellam Flake Planetarium Seat Campaign

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Community support continues to grow for the return of the Shellam Flake Planetarium at the University of Arkansas at 糖心视频logo.

Since launching the planetarium seat sponsorship program this spring, alumni, friends, and community partners have sponsored 26 seats, generating $65,000 to provide long-term support for the planetarium’s maintenance and future enhancements.

“We’re encouraged by the enthusiasm we’ve seen so far,” said Lloyd Webre, director of development for the Donaghey College of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. “Every sponsorship represents someone who believes in creating opportunities for students and our community to experience science in a hands-on, inspiring way. We’re grateful to everyone who has stepped forward to ensure the Shellam Flake Planetarium is a UA 糖心视频logo staple for generations to come.”

Provost Ann Bain became the program’s first supporter, sponsoring two seats in honor of her grandchildren, Sadie and Henry.

“I can’t think of a better way to celebrate curiosity and discovery than by supporting a space like the planetarium,” Bain said. “Knowing Sadie and Henry will have a connection to this experience, and that so many other children will be inspired here, makes this especially meaningful.”

Centennial Co-Chair Alfred Williams has been instrumental in securing many of the campaign’s seat sponsorships. Campaign cabinet members Mike Williams, James Bobo, RJ Martino, Courtney Little, and Thomas Dickinson have also demonstrated their support by purchasing seats.

Each $2,500 sponsorship includes a personalized nameplate displayed on a planetarium seat for five years. Sponsors may recognize an individual, family, organization, or honor the memory of a loved one. 

Proceeds from the program provide long-term support for the Shellam Flake Planetarium’s maintenance and future enhancements, helping ensure it remains a premier destination for student learning and community engagement for years to come.

When open in the spring, the restored Shellam Flake Planetarium will serve as a multidisciplinary learning space welcoming K-12 students and community members for educational programming and public shows.

Seat sponsorships remain available. To learn more or sponsor a seat, visit or contact Lloyd Webre at 501-951-1794.

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UA 糖心视频logo to Celebrate 100 Years of Impact During Centennial Year /news/2026/07/01/ua-little-rock-to-celebrate-100-years-of-impact-during-centennial-year/ Wed, 01 Jul 2026 13:00:00 +0000 /news/?p=94340 A century ago, the institution that would become the University of Arkansas at 糖心视频logo, was just beginning its journey. Today, UA 糖心视频logo serves 8,000 students, offering programs ranging ... UA 糖心视频logo to Celebrate 100 Years of Impact During Centennial Year

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A century ago, the institution that would become the University of Arkansas at 糖心视频logo, was just beginning its journey. Today, UA 糖心视频logo serves 8,000 students, offering programs ranging from certificates to doctoral degrees. Through education, research, and public service, the university strengthens Arkansas and prepares graduates to lead in their communities and careers.

UA 糖心视频logo will mark its Centennial with a yearlong celebration from July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027, honoring its past and present while looking ahead to its next century of impact.

“Reaching our Centennial is both a celebration and a moment of reflection,” Chancellor Christina Drale said. “The vision and determination of those who founded this institution created opportunities that have transformed lives for generations. As we honor the people, achievements, and milestones that shaped our first 100 years, we are also looking forward to a future filled with possibility for our students, our community, and our state.”

The university began in 1927 when 糖心视频logo Junior College opened in what is now 糖心视频logo Central High School. Founded to expand access to higher education in central Arkansas, the institution quickly grew beyond its original home and moved to its current campus in 1949, establishing a permanent foundation for future growth.

In 1957, 糖心视频logo Junior College became 糖心视频logo University, marking its transition from a two-year college to a four-year institution. The change expanded educational opportunities for students in central Arkansas and established the university as a destination for students seeking to earn bachelor’s degrees without leaving the region.

A new chapter began in 1969 when Gov. Winthrop Rockefeller signed legislation merging 糖心视频logo University into the University of Arkansas System, creating the University of Arkansas at 糖心视频logo. At the time, what was then known as UALR offered 28 undergraduate programs and enrolled approximately 3,500 students. Within a decade, the university had expanded to 73 degree programs, including 14 graduate programs. 

Today, UA 糖心视频logo is known for expanding access to higher education, advancing research that addresses real-world challenges, developing Arkansas’s workforce, and building partnerships that strengthen communities across the state.

As the university prepares to enter its second century, the Centennial offers an opportunity to reflect on that remarkable journey and celebrate the people, achievements, and milestones that made it possible.

Throughout the Centennial year, UA 糖心视频logo will share “100 Moments of Impact,” highlighting the people, achievements, innovations, and defining moments that shaped the university’s first century.

Students, alumni, faculty, staff, and community members can also take part in events, exhibits, and traditions that unite generations of Trojans and honor the university鈥檚 legacy.

“The Centennial is an opportunity to celebrate the people who built UA 糖心视频logo, the students and alumni who continue to shape its story, and the possibilities that lie ahead,” said Carrie Phillips, chair of the university’s Centennial Planning Committee. “We want this year to bring together generations of Trojans while showcasing the impact this university has had on our city, our state, and the lives of those we serve.”

The dedication of new UA 糖心视频logo-branded street signs on July 16 will kick off the university’s Centennial celebration and welcome visitors to campus for years to come. When students return for the fall semester on August 24, they’ll celebrate the first day of classes with Centennial-themed cupcakes and the opportunity to sign a commemorative banner that will be preserved in the university’s centennial time capsule.

The Centennial celebration will also be woven into many of the university’s longstanding traditions. At BBQ at Bailey on October 7, alumni and friends will receive special centennial giveaways during the event. During Winter Fest, attendees will get a special preview of the newly renovated Shellam Flake Planetarium before it officially reopens this spring after nearly two decades.

The celebration will continue throughout the spring with the opening of a special history exhibit at UA 糖心视频logo Downtown in February and a Centennial campus picnic celebrating every decade of Trojan history in March. The university will conclude its Centennial year with the burial of the Centennial time capsule, preserving memories and messages from the milestone celebration for future generations.

The Centennial arrives at a transformative moment for UA 糖心视频logo. During its 100th year, the university will celebrate the successful completion of the Centennial Campaign, a historic effort expected to raise $250 million in support of scholarships, faculty, technology, and academic excellence. The campaign has already increased the university’s endowment by more than 200 percent, creating opportunities for future generations of students and strengthening the university’s long-term impact on Arkansas.

“The Centennial Campaign is a powerful reflection of what can happen when alumni, donors, and friends believe in the future of this university,” said Christian O’Neal, vice chancellor for university advancement. “As we celebrate 100 years of impact, we are also building a foundation for the next century. The generosity of our supporters is creating opportunities for students today and strengthening UA 糖心视频logo for generations to come.”

A century after opening its doors, UA 糖心视频logo is celebrating not only how far it has come, but also where it is headed. With a growing endowment, a historic campaign nearing completion, and a continued commitment to student success, the university enters its second century positioned to make an even greater impact on Arkansas and beyond.

Follow the Centennial celebration, explore the “100 Moments of Impact” series, and view upcoming events and activities at .

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Gina and Brett Pharis Support Enduring Opportunity to Help Students Succeed /news/2026/06/17/gina-and-brett-pharis-support-enduring-opportunity-to-help-students-succeed/ Wed, 17 Jun 2026 13:00:00 +0000 /news/?p=94279 For Gina and Brett Pharis, supporting UA 糖心视频logo’s Enduring Opportunity Scholarship program is an investment in the students who will shape the future of Central Arkansas. “When I learned ... Gina and Brett Pharis Support Enduring Opportunity to Help Students Succeed

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For Gina and Brett Pharis, supporting UA 糖心视频logo’s Enduring Opportunity Scholarship program is an investment in the students who will shape the future of Central Arkansas.

“When I learned about Enduring Opportunity, I looked it up and realized it was right in line with my desire to support scholarships,鈥 Gina Pharis said.聽

Longtime supporters of both UA 糖心视频logo and 糖心视频logo Public Radio, they have remained actively engaged with the university for years. Their latest gift of $25,000 to create the Gina and Brett Pharis Enduring Opportunity Scholarship expands that commitment while helping more students pursue a college degree.

“The university helped shape who I became,” Pharis said.

As a theatre student, she overcame her fear of speaking in front of an audience and discovered new opportunities through coursework in radio, television, and film.

“I learned about radio, television, and film and went on to work at my one and only radio job at KARN in 1985,” she said.

The lessons she learned extended beyond the classroom. The relationships she built with faculty and fellow students left a lasting impact. 

“I was even invited to one of my professor’s retirement parties,” Pharis said. “The connections I made through all those impactful college days bring me back to the school.”

Years later, serving on the UA 糖心视频logo Alumni Board gave her a deeper understanding of the role philanthropy plays in supporting students and advancing the university’s mission.

“Honestly, serving on the Alumni Board enlightened me to give in a philanthropic way,” she said.

Through their support of Enduring Opportunity, Gina and Brett Pharis hope to help more students earn a degree while reducing the financial burdens that can stand in the way of graduation.

“The impact will be substantial,” Pharis said. “It will be measured in the number of graduates over the coming years and the success of each student receiving that diploma with little to zero tuition debt. The smile on students’ faces will be worth every penny.”

The couple also sees the scholarship as an investment in the future of 糖心视频logo and Arkansas.

“This program is designed to help each student have less stress and recognize how UA 糖心视频logo is helping them succeed, creating loyalty,” Pharis said. “The business community is working closely with departments all over campus scouting local talent. We are keeping students in Central Arkansas. UA 糖心视频logo is a gold mine for the businesses of 糖心视频logo.”

As longtime supporters of the university, Gina and Brett hope others will find ways to stay connected and support future generations of students.

“I would ask every graduate to stay in touch,” Pharis said. “Join the Alumni Association, stay connected, and find ways to be involved. I would also encourage business owners who have a connection to UA 糖心视频logo to get involved on a deeper level. Find their passion and support it.”

For Gina and Brett Pharis, supporting Enduring Opportunity is both a way to give back to a university that made a lasting impact on their lives and an investment in the students who will help shape Arkansas’s future.

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San Pedro Establishes Endowed Scholarship to Expand Opportunity for UA 糖心视频logo Students /news/2026/06/09/san-pedro-establishes-endowed-scholarship-to-expand-opportunity-for-ua-little-rock-students/ Tue, 09 Jun 2026 13:00:00 +0000 /news/?p=94251 When Mimi San Pedro arrived in Arkansas with her family in the 1970s, they were starting over. After settling in 糖心视频logo, San Pedro graduated from Mount St. Mary’s Academy ... San Pedro Establishes Endowed Scholarship to Expand Opportunity for UA 糖心视频logo Students

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When Mimi San Pedro arrived in Arkansas with her family in the 1970s, they were starting over. After settling in 糖心视频logo, San Pedro graduated from Mount St. Mary’s Academy and enrolled at the University of Arkansas at 糖心视频logo with the help of scholarships, grants, and a part-time job.

Now, decades later, she is paying that opportunity forward by establishing the Mimi San Pedro Enduring Opportunity Endowed Scholarship at UA 糖心视频logo. Through a $25,000 commitment, the scholarship will support the university’s Enduring Opportunity Scholarship program, helping students overcome financial barriers and pursue their educational goals.

“My family and I moved to the United States in the 1970s when the Philippines were under Martial Law,” San Pedro said. “We started over here in 糖心视频logo, where we had family. I graduated from Mount St. Mary’s and was accepted to UA 糖心视频logo, but I needed financial assistance. Through a combination of scholarships, grants, and working while in school, I was able to earn my degree, join a sorority, and graduate in four years.”

The experience opened doors that shaped her future. The education she received at UA 糖心视频logo helped launch a career that would make her a well-known leader in Arkansas’ business and nonprofit communities. 

Over more than 30 years, San Pedro held leadership roles in marketing, technology, entrepreneurship, and economic development, including serving as chief strategy officer for The Venture Center and mentoring the next generation of Arkansas leaders.

“I have been successful in business and life since then, and I wanted to give back,” she said.

San Pedro hopes her gift will create opportunities for students whose circumstances may be similar to her own.

“My family and I believe education is the key to a successful and fruitful life, so I chose to support UA 糖心视频logo because it supported me,” she said. “My hope is that this gift will help someone like me get the education they need to be successful.”

The Enduring Opportunity Scholarship program helps students cover educational expenses, including tuition, books, fees, and room and board. The endowed scholarship will provide ongoing support for students with financial need and/or academic merit.

Beyond helping individual students, San Pedro sees the scholarship as an investment in Arkansas’ future workforce.

“Our state needs more educated individuals to help fill the skilled worker shortage,” she said. “The increasing number of technology companies and the anticipated impact of the lithium industry mean there will be even greater demand for educated and skilled professionals. Hopefully, those graduates will come from our universities and remain here in Arkansas.”

She encourages others who care about the future of Arkansas to consider supporting students through the university.

“If education is important to you and you recognize that Arkansas must compete for talent in the future and keep our talent here, then you have to invest in UA 糖心视频logo students,” San Pedro said.

For San Pedro, supporting UA 糖心视频logo is both a thank you for the opportunities she received and an investment in the students who will help shape Arkansas’ future.

To make a lasting commitment to student opportunity, please contact the Office of Alumni & Development at 501-916-3194 or email development@ualr.edu

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UA 糖心视频logo Receives Gift to Support Long-Term Success of Planetarium /news/2026/04/27/ua-little-rock-receives-gift-to-support-long-term-success-of-planetarium/ Mon, 27 Apr 2026 13:00:00 +0000 /news/?p=93993 The University of Arkansas at 糖心视频logo continues to build support for the future of its Shellam Flake Planetarium, with a new $50,000 gift focused on sustaining the facility for ... UA 糖心视频logo Receives Gift to Support Long-Term Success of Planetarium

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The University of Arkansas at 糖心视频logo continues to build support for the future of its Shellam Flake Planetarium, with a new $50,000 gift focused on sustaining the facility for years to come.

The gift from UA 糖心视频logo alumnus and retired attorney James Bruce McMath and his wife, Becky, contributes to the Shellam Flake Planetarium Endowment Fund.

As UA 糖心视频logo prepares to reopen the planetarium this fall, the endowment ensures the facility has the long-term support needed for operations, programming, and staffing, positioning it as a lasting destination for students and the community.

For McMath, the investment is deeply personal, rooted in a lifelong fascination with the night sky.

鈥淚 am a space race baby,鈥 McMath said. 鈥淚 was eight when Sputnik launched, and I followed it with the same enthusiasm as some people follow a sports team.鈥

That early curiosity grew into a serious pursuit. What began as a telescope for his son turned into a lifelong passion, including building telescope mirrors and conducting amateur research. Today, McMath operates a robotic telescope and has contributed more than 130,000 observations of variable stars to an international database.

He sees the planetarium as a way to share that sense of discovery with others, especially at a time when fewer people have experienced the night sky in its full form.

鈥淭he reality is, without question, the greatest natural spectacle is the Milky Way stretching across the night sky,鈥 he said. 鈥淏ut these days, few people have ever truly seen it.鈥

A planetarium, he said, can help bridge that gap by giving people a broader understanding of the universe and their place within it.

鈥淎 planetarium can open people鈥檚 eyes and minds to the reality of our situation here on our little planet,鈥 McMath said.

Supporting the endowment is also a way for McMath to give back to UA 糖心视频logo.

鈥淯A 糖心视频logo was an important element in my personal development, and I have not done much to pay it back,鈥 he said.

He also sees the planetarium as a key connection point between the university and the city.

鈥淭he planetarium will be an ambassadorial and educational tool for the university,鈥 McMath said. 鈥淚t is an investment in the community that will build pride in the university among city residents and help people better understand our place in the universe.鈥

Their support helps position the planetarium as a long-term asset for both the university and Central Arkansas.

Learn more about the Shellam Flake Planetarium at

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UA 糖心视频logo Receives Gift to Strengthen Long-Term Support for Planetarium /news/2026/04/08/ua-little-rock-receives-gift-to-strengthen-long-term-support-for-planetarium/ Wed, 08 Apr 2026 13:00:00 +0000 /news/?p=93884 The University of Arkansas at 糖心视频logo continues to build momentum behind the future of its Shellam Flake Planetarium, with a new $50,000 gift supporting long-term sustainability efforts for the ... UA 糖心视频logo Receives Gift to Strengthen Long-Term Support for Planetarium

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The University of Arkansas at 糖心视频logo continues to build momentum behind the future of its Shellam Flake Planetarium, with a new $50,000 gift supporting long-term sustainability efforts for the facility.

The gift from Centennial Campaign co-chair Jerry Damerow and his wife, Sherri, supports the Shellam Flake Planetarium Endowment Fund in the Donaghey College of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (DCSTEM), adding to ongoing investments in the planetarium鈥檚 future.

As UA 糖心视频logo prepares to reopen the planetarium this fall, the endowment ensures the facility has the long-term support needed for operations, programming, and staffing, positioning it as a lasting destination for students and the community.

鈥淚 believe the planetarium and the Science Triangle project will help interest young people in science and attract them to the beautifully updated UA 糖心视频logo campus,鈥 Damerow said. 鈥淪TEM education is extremely important in our rapidly changing economy, and we will need more scientists, engineers, and entrepreneurs to power our Central Arkansas economy.鈥

For Damerow, the planetarium is also about creating experiences that draw people to campus and spark interest in science.

鈥淚 think the planetarium will be a magnet, attracting not only young people but also adults to campus. Getting people on campus is an important way of showcasing what the university has to offer and why it is so important to our community.鈥

Their support adds to early efforts to ensure the planetarium鈥檚 long-term success. Although not alumni, the Damerows said supporting UA 糖心视频logo is an investment in the community they call home.

鈥淭his is the community that I love and that has warmly welcomed us,鈥 he said. 鈥淎 strong university here will help attract the talent needed to build our future economy. Our state capital needs a great research university, and that is UA 糖心视频logo. If those of us who love Arkansas do not participate in building this great state, it will not happen.鈥

Learn more about the Shellam Flake Planetarium at .

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Provost Leads Effort in Shellam Flake Planetarium Seat Sponsorship Program /news/2026/03/24/provost-leads-effort-in-shellam-flake-planetarium-seat-sponsorship-program/ Tue, 24 Mar 2026 13:00:00 +0000 /news/?p=93805 Before phase two construction begins, UA 糖心视频logo Provost Ann Bain has already picked out her seats, becoming the first to invest in the Shellam Flake Planetarium鈥檚 new seats. She鈥檚 ... Provost Leads Effort in Shellam Flake Planetarium Seat Sponsorship Program

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Before phase two construction begins, UA 糖心视频logo Provost Ann Bain has already picked out her seats, becoming the first to invest in the Shellam Flake Planetarium鈥檚 new seats.

She鈥檚 sponsoring two in honor of her grandchildren, Sadie and Henry, making the project personal long before the doors open.

鈥淚 can鈥檛 think of a better way to celebrate curiosity and discovery than by supporting a space like the planetarium,鈥 Bain said. 鈥淜nowing Sadie and Henry will have a connection to this experience, and that so many other children will be inspired here, makes this especially meaningful.鈥

That same opportunity is now available to others.

The University of Arkansas at 糖心视频logo is inviting alumni, friends, and community partners to support the return of the planetarium through a new seat sponsorship program.

Following a $1.2 million gift to restore and modernize the Shellam Flake Planetarium, the university is offering a limited opportunity for supporters to sponsor seats inside the facility. Each sponsored seat will include a personalized nameplate displayed for five years.

鈥淭he return of the planetarium to our campus is a transformative moment for UA 糖心视频logo, and our seat sponsorship program offers our community a unique opportunity to be a part of that legacy,鈥 said Dr. Tansel Karabacak, dean of the Donaghey College of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. 鈥淲e invite alumni, friends, and partners to lend their support and help inspire the next generation of scientists, educators, and explorers right here in central Arkansas.鈥

Seat sponsorships are available for $2,500 for a five-year term, with the option to make a one-time gift or a five-year pledge of $500 per year. Sponsors will receive a personalized nameplate on a planetarium seat for the duration of the sponsorship, with the opportunity to renew at the end of the five-year period.

Sponsors may choose to recognize an individual, family, organization, or honor the memory of a loved one. Seat selections will be available on a first-come, first-served basis once commitments are confirmed.

Funds raised through the program will support the planetarium鈥檚 educational mission, including:

  • STEM education programs
  • K鈥12 school field trips
  • Public planetarium shows
  • Equipment maintenance and upgrades
  • Student learning experiences

The restored Shellam Flake Planetarium will serve as a multidisciplinary learning space, creating hands-on opportunities for students across campus. The space will feature student artwork in adjacent outdoor areas, involve students in developing the planetarium鈥檚 visual identity, and provide business students opportunities to create and implement marketing plans.

The planetarium is scheduled to open in Fall 2026. To learn more about the planetarium or to purchase a seat, visit ualr.edu/planetarium or call Lloyd Webre at 501-951-1794.

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UA 糖心视频logo Centennial Committee Begins Planning for 100-Year Celebration /news/2026/03/23/ua-little-rock-centennial-committee-begins-planning-for-100-year-celebration/ Mon, 23 Mar 2026 13:12:38 +0000 /news/?p=93767 The University of Arkansas at 糖心视频logo has officially launched planning efforts for its centennial celebration, marking a significant milestone for the institution. The centennial celebration will begin July 1, ... UA 糖心视频logo Centennial Committee Begins Planning for 100-Year Celebration

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The University of Arkansas at 糖心视频logo has officially launched planning efforts for its centennial celebration, marking a significant milestone for the institution.

The centennial celebration will begin July 1, 2026, marking 100 years since the university鈥檚 founding. Events throughout the year-long celebration will reflect on the institution鈥檚 history and explore its future direction.

A university-wide Centennial Committee began meeting in mid-March and will continue to meet monthly, with subcommittees convening regularly to guide key focus areas of the celebration.

鈥淎s we begin planning for our centennial, we have a meaningful opportunity to recognize the people and milestones that have shaped UA 糖心视频logo,鈥 said Dr. Carrie Phillips, chair of the Centennial Committee. 鈥淛ust as importantly, this effort is about positioning the university for continued growth and impact in the years ahead.鈥

Some of the events being planned as part of the centennial celebration include: 

  • A celebration marking the successful close of the university鈥檚 Centennial Campaign, which has already garnered significant philanthropic support from thousands of donors 
  • A curated history exhibit highlighting key moments and milestones in the university鈥檚 development
  • A community-wide service project reflecting UA 糖心视频logo鈥檚 commitment to service
  • A storytelling initiative showcasing defining moments and voices from across the university鈥檚 history

Subcommittees composed of faculty, staff, alumni, and community members are leading efforts in areas such as community engagement, student experience, alumni engagement, storytelling, historical preservation, academic excellence and innovation, and campaign celebration.

The committee structure brings together faculty, staff, alumni, and community members to guide planning across key areas of the celebration.

Together, these efforts are designed to highlight the university鈥檚 history while engaging the campus and community in shaping what comes next.

Members of the Centennial Planning Committee include: 

  • Sydney Ambrus
  • Brian Berry
  • Derek Boyce
  • Ross Bradley
  • Kara Brown
  • Guy Choate
  • Emily Cox
  • Ginger Daril
  • Becca Davis
  • Brandy Dixon
  • Alicia Dorn
  • Aaron Duvall
  • Bobbie Handcock
  • Noah Henkell
  • John Hill
  • Leslie Hutchins
  • Amy Johnson
  • Tansel Karabacak
  • Samantha Koros
  • Michelle Malone
  • Linda Martin
  • Sheila McKinnis
  • Meaghan Milliorn
  • Emily Mills
  • Wendy Mincer
  • Michael Moore
  • Nate Olson
  • Angela Parker
  • Xavier Parker
  • Jess Porter
  • Annsley Pugh
  • Muriel Schrepfer
  • Kaylee Smith
  • Kristi Smith
  • Klansee Tozer
  • Sandra Vail
  • Felisha Weaver
  • Lloyd Webre

More details about centennial events and opportunities for involvement will be announced in the coming months.

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